How Much Do Pharmacy Techs Get Paid Hourly?
Are you considering becoming a pharmacy technician, but wondering how much you can expect to earn hourly? Or are you already working as a pharmacy tech and curious if your pay is in line with industry standards? Whatever your situation, understanding pharmacy tech salaries can be an important consideration when pursuing a career in this field.
So, how much do pharmacy techs get paid hourly?
The answer to this question can vary depending on a number of factors, including location, experience level, and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for pharmacy technicians in the United States was $16.26 as of May 2020. However, the range of hourly wages can be quite broad, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $10.66 per hour and the highest 10 percent earning more than $24.23 per hour.
Personal Experience with Pharmacy Tech Hourly Pay
As a pharmacy technician with 5 years of experience working in a retail pharmacy in the Midwest, I can attest to the accuracy of these salary ranges. When I first started out as a pharmacy tech, I was earning just above minimum wage. However, as I gained experience and took on more responsibilities, my pay increased to the point where I am now earning closer to the upper end of the hourly wage range.
Factors that Affect Pharmacy Tech Hourly Pay
As mentioned earlier, there are a number of factors that can influence how much a pharmacy technician is paid hourly. Some of these factors include:
Location
Pharmacy techs working in urban areas or in states with higher costs of living may earn more than those working in rural areas or in states with lower costs of living.
Experience Level
Pharmacy techs with more experience and/or specialized training may be able to command higher hourly wages than those who are just starting out in the field.
Growth Potential for Pharmacy Techs
One of the reasons that pharmacy technician salaries can be an attractive feature of this career is the potential for growth. With additional education or training, pharmacy techs can often advance to positions with higher pay and more responsibilities. For example, some pharmacy techs go on to become pharmacy managers or even transition into other healthcare professions, such as nursing or physician assistant roles.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the job outlook for pharmacy techs?
A: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by an aging population and an increased need for prescription medications.
Q: Do pharmacy techs receive benefits?
A: Many pharmacy techs are eligible for benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. However, the availability and types of benefits offered can vary depending on the employer.
Q: What are some common duties of a pharmacy tech?
A: Pharmacy techs can perform a variety of tasks, including filling prescriptions, measuring medication amounts, preparing labels, and communicating with healthcare providers and patients.
Q: Is certification required to become a pharmacy tech?
A: While certification is not always required to become a pharmacy technician, many employers prefer or require it. Certification can be obtained through a number of organizations, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or the National Healthcareer Association.
Conclusion of How Much Do Pharmacy Techs Get Paid Hourly
Overall, pharmacy technician salaries can vary depending on a number of factors, but the median hourly wage is around $16.26 in the United States. However, with potential for growth and advancement, a career as a pharmacy technician can offer a stable and rewarding path in the healthcare industry.
